Your first step is to submit an initial claim in order for DEW to determine if your circumstances meet the eligibility requirements of the UI program. Filing a claim is the only way for eligibility to be determined.

Once you have submitted your application, DEW will review your claim and determine if you qualify for benefits.

Within a week after applying, you will receive a Monetary Determination by mail outlining your potential weekly and maximum benefits amounts. The maximum weekly benefit amount in South Carolina is $326 before taxes. A Monetary Determination only outlines your monetary eligibility, and does not mean that you meet all eligibility requirements.

You may be asked to submit certain types of information to DEW in order to determine if you are eligible to receive benefits; this information can be submitted by mail or fax. Click here to view submission options in your area.

You should receive a final eligibility decision by mail within 21 days of receiving the Monetary Determination. If you are deemed eligible, please note that you will not be paid for the first week of eligibility in each benefit year; this is considered a waiting week.

When applying for benefits, you will choose to receive benefit payments by debit card or direct deposit. For more information, please visit our payment page. Please note that you are required to pay taxes on UI benefits.

The information you provide DEW when filing a claim for UI is held confidential but may be shared with other state and/or federal agencies administering unemployment insurance programs or other government programs.